Bay breakdancers impress crowds
PROVIDING a platform for dancers to showcase their talents was the reason for hosting the inaugural Battle Beasts 2017 competition, held at the weekend.
Handstands, windmills and backflips were just some of the moves on display as B-boys from across the province battled to claim the top spot.
More than 35 B-boys and girls descended on Shag High Voltage Hair in Lower Valley Road on Saturday to prove their mettle against other dancers.
Freestyle category winner Zanovuyo “Zaza” Kolisi, from Algoa Park, said he was delighted to pick up the win as the competition was tough.
“There were strong dancers and I never thought I would make it this far, but it was a great experience,” he said.
Asked what dancing meant to him, an out-of-breath Kolisi said: “Dancing feeds me, dancing clothes me and dancing pays me, it’s my life.”
Zanuxolo “Killer” Matila, from the CYFA dance crew, did his hometown of East London proud as he scooped the under-15 category in a nail-biting final.
Other category winners included Emile “Flame” Jooste, who took the power move one-on-one title, before teaming up with Leroy “Jungle Kat” Hanse to be crowned the two-on-two battle champions.
Modelled along similar lines to the Red Bull BC One competition, Battle Beast competitors went head to head in knockout dance battles as they looked to impress the judges.
Dancers competed in four categories including power move one-on-one, freestyle, two-on-two and under-15, with each category winner receiving a trophy as well as a monetary prize.
Various dance styles were showcased including breakdance, hip hop, crump, house and locking.
Event organiser and judge Cheslyn ”B-Boy Rhythm ” Meyer said he was moved by the amount of support shown from all the competitors, supporters and sponsor Red Bull, who made the event a success.
The event, the first breakdance competition of its kind in almost a year, was aimed at attracting more young performers and, in so doing, keeping them away from bad elements within their communities.
“Breakdancing can take you far. Guys can compete at national and international levels. Some can even open their own dance studios,” he said.
Red Bull BC One ambassador Gerald “Vouks” Witbooi said the competition bore testament to the talents hidden within the Eastern Cape.
“I see big things coming from the region if guys can stay committed and steadfast,” he said.